It appears that Benitez wants as much of his squad assembled with as little upheaval by the time the season kicks off as possible.

The Chronicle reports that there are several futures that need to be resolved with Andros Townsend, Georginio Wijnaldum and Daryl Janmaat all being linked with moves away, and Moussa Sissoko publicly expressing his desire to leave.

The latter of that quartet could be the last to have their future resolved given he is on international duty with France at Euro 2016.

It is said that Benitez has accepted that there will be business taking place right up until the transfer deadline at the end of August, but if the Spaniard has much of his squad in place, it could allow his side to hit the ground running as they bid to return to the top flight at the first attempt.

They also cite quotes from BBC Newcastle, where the Spaniard says: “It will be important for me now because the transfer window is open during the start of the season so it will important to maybe finish at the beginning of August.

“Then the players will know: ‘I am here, so this is my team.’"

One can see the logic and that the Newcastle boss wants as little disruption as possible going into the start of next season. It is a hugely important period for the club, and he needs the entire squad singing from the same hymn sheet ahead of a crucial season.

Ian Bolland

A journalism graduate of Liverpool John Moores University. During his time at university, Ian spent time on work experience at local newspapers in Liverpool, Bolton and Wigan, and prior to that he did work for The Observer's 'fans verdict'. Ian also has interests in news, current affairs and business but mostly sport, including football, rugby league, cricket, golf and Formula 1, amongst others.